STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — In 1950, the Fence Show was the biggest game in town — and practically the only game in town.

Way back when, Staten Island painters, draftsmen, sculptors and photographers had few local exhibition options. Then (as now) there wasn’t a big on-Island gallery scene. Occasionally a club, library or school presented a show. Rarely, someone might even host a “private viewing” in their home.

But 61 years later, things have changed. Today, this Staten Island Museum tradition is hardly alone as a local exhibit. It probably isn’t even the biggest, what with the Art by the Ferry fest and Second Saturday arts tours.

But when it returns Sept. 17, the Fence Show will hold the distinction of being the longest-running outdoor art show in New York City history.

Sure, over the past few decades Island museums, the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art, SHOW gallery and other venues have become locavores — consumers of local art — but not exclusively. The self-professed “community gallery” Art at Bay — once a vacant storefront — adds more exposure. And a contingent of young artists, all residents of St. George/New Brighton/Tompkinsville, welcome the public into their work/living spaces.

Still, the increasing competition hasn’t diminished the Fence Show, which is presented — most years — on the tall, wrought-iron fence at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden in Livingston.

As of this week, 97 participants (painters, printmakers, photographers and jewelry makers) had already signed on for the 2011 installment.

“After a soggy, yet heartfelt, showing last year, we are happy to announce the inclusion of rain date: Sept. 18,” said Donna Pagano, exhibitions manager at the museum. “So in case of bad weather, check the museum’s website (StatenIslandMuseum.org), twitter (SIMuseum) and Facebook for up-to-minute information.”

Creative-types spanning many generations (a junior division admits “mini Monets” 8-18) can rent a 10-foot length of fence: $30 for students 18 or younger, $40 for member of the S.I. museum, $60 for non-members and $65 for a space and a one-year museum membership. Renters are permitted to share their space with one other artist.

Reserved spaces are still available by calling Ms. Pagano at 718-483-7106 or emailing dpagano@statenislandmuseum.org.

“And people could probably still show up the day of and get a space,” she added.

Of course, most of the featured art is for sale. Prices tags run anywhere from 20 bucks to several hundred dollars, although some artists will show large and pricey works that are unlikely to sell at an informal outdoor showcase.

Still, the day can be a money-maker, Ms. Pagano said.

“Last year, some exhibitors went home with a pocket full of money,” she said.

Although some participants may not bank as much, they could make contacts that lead to commissions. Networking is key. Before he was famous, Jean-Michel Basquiat peddled prints for $10 to $25 a sheet on street corners in Soho. Anyone who bought them then owns a recession-proof goldmine today.

Craftspeople weren’t always welcome; today they represent about 20 percent of exhibitors. Still, there are rules: Mass-produced items are not welcome, “so everything has to be hand-made,” Ms. Pagano said.

Oh, and keep it clean: The Fence Show is a family event, so erotic and/or X-rated art is inappropriate.

During the event, the museum will also offer guided nature walks of the Snug Harbor grounds, tours of the Staten Island History Center & Archives, rocket lessons and launches with Clay Wollney’s Junior Science Club (blast off at 1, 2 and 3 p.m.) and various souvenirs and publications. Plus, food trucks will be on site.

“So come spend the day, browse the art, take a tour and have a bite and a beverage,” Ms. Pagano said.

THE FENCE SHOW
The 61th anniversary edition of a Staten Island Museum tradition
Where
The front lawn at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, 1000 Richmond Terr., Livingston; Snug-Harbor.org.
When
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 17 (rain date Sept. 18).
How much
Admission is free; no pre-registration is required for artists.
More information